A co-worker recently asked me if in all of my years as an early childhood educator, whether I ever cared for a child that did not adjust to child care.

In all honesty I replied no. 

Over the years there were many children who cried for the first few days and one for a few weeks.  Often the tears were hardest when mom or dad was leaving. 

Good caregivers find ways to engage the child in interesting activities.  Throughout the day tears may come and go, but with most children these lessen each day as they become more familiar with their new environment and caregivers and they realize that mom and dad always come back to get them.

Ideally introducing your child to a new day care by doing what we call gradual entry is best.  First visiting the centre a few times with your child; then leaving them for very short periods of time; then increasing the length of time.

That’s easy to say, but parents lead busy lives and often work places expectations on them that make gradual entry into child care more difficult and challenging.

This is where employers can help.  By recognizing that parents need time for their child to adjust to a new setting and allowing some flexibility with work schedules, extending lunch breaks and doing some work from home where appropriate.

Finally I should say that in some cases younger children may find a group child care setting overwhelming.  They may be more comfortable in a small home setting.  If you are concerned talk to your caregiver and find out how your child is coping after they settle from the drop off time.

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